Dear Friends,
As we stand at the threshold of 2025, I find myself contemplating how differently each of us experiences this unique time of year. For some, it sparkles with the warmth of family gatherings and celebrations, while for others, it carries the quiet weight of solitude or echoes of times past. What unites us all, perhaps, is that subtle shift in energy as January unfolds, bringing with it both the familiar rhythm of returning routines and the whispered possibility of new beginnings.
A Fresh Start
As the world prepares to spring back into full motion this Monday, I’m reminded of how easy it is to get swept along by the currents of our busy lives. Yet within this momentum lies an invitation – a chance to pause and gently ask ourselves: What direction would we like our life’s journey to take this year? Perhaps we’re yearning for deeper connections, more meaningful experiences, or simply moments of peace amidst life’s whirlwind?
Beginning Your Journey
If these questions resonate with you, I’m delighted to share that we’re starting an 8-week mindfulness and meditation course this Tuesday, January 7th, at The Millbridge Rooms in Hertford. Just turn up between 7:00 and 7:15 PM, and like all our classes, it’s offered freely and welcomes drop-ins. There is no need to register, or commit to coming all 8 weeks. You’ll find meditation instruction, discussion and also a warm community, friendly faces, and yes – even tea and biscuits!
To enrich your practice, you might want to buy Maitreyabandhu’s “Life with Full Attention” book. There is also an app for your phone (with audio, videos and poetry). Just search “Life with Full Attention” in the app store. These resources are designed to go along with our course, and allow us to take a much deeper dive into the experience. However, they’re entirely optional. The most important step is simply showing up.
Deepening Your Practice: A Weekend Retreat
For those who’ve already tasted the transformative power of meditation, or feel called to explore its depths more fully, I’m excited to share news of our upcoming weekend retreat. From Friday March 21st to Sunday 23rd, we’ll be gathering at the beautiful Vajrasana retreat centre in the serene countryside near Bury St. Edmunds. This retreat, organised in partnership with the Bury St. Edmunds Buddhist group, welcomes both complete beginners and experienced practitioners over 18.
In my own experience, these weekend retreats offer something truly special – a chance to dive deeper into our practice than our usual Tuesday evenings allow. There’s a particular magic in dedicating a whole weekend to meditation and spiritual friendship that can profoundly influence our practice for months to come. You can secure your place at https://hertfordbuddhistgroup.co.uk/retreat202503.
In Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to join us for Tuesday evenings, contemplating a retreat, or simply reading these words, know that you’re part of a community that values authentic connection and personal growth. As we step into this new year together, may we all find the courage to nurture what truly matters in our lives.
For any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out through our Facebook page or join our Facebook group. Until we meet, may your new year be filled with peace, meaning, and moments of genuine connection.
With warmth,
Keith